Las Vegas Hits 80 Degrees for First Time in 2026

Southern Nevada experiences rising temperatures and calm, dry conditions after recent storms.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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After last week's rain, wind and cooler-than-normal temperatures, the Las Vegas Valley is now experiencing a February heat wave, with temperatures reaching 81 degrees at Harry Reid International Airport on February 26, 2026. This is the first time the area has hit 80 degrees so far this year, and record-high temperatures could be set over the upcoming weekend.

Why it matters

The sudden shift in weather conditions highlights the unpredictable nature of Las Vegas' climate, which can swing rapidly from wet and cool to hot and dry. This is particularly noteworthy given the region's ongoing water scarcity issues and the need to adapt to a changing climate.

The details

The Las Vegas Valley failed to top 49 degrees last Thursday, but just a week later, temperatures have climbed into the low 80s. A ridge of high pressure has moved into the region, following three Pacific storms that brought much-needed rain last week. Daytime highs are forecast to stay in the low 80s through the weekend, with a 75% chance of tying or breaking record highs on Saturday and Sunday.

  • On February 26, 2026, Las Vegas reached 81 degrees at Harry Reid International Airport.
  • The last time the airport saw 80 degrees was November 8.
  • The daily record high for February 26 is 87 degrees, set in 1986.
  • Record-high temperatures could be set on February 29 (84 degrees) and March 1 (82 degrees).
  • The average daily high for late February in the Las Vegas Valley is 66 degrees.

The players

Harry Reid International Airport

The main airport serving the Las Vegas metropolitan area.

Morgan Stessman

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service.

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What they’re saying

“There's a 75 percent chance of tying or breaking the record.”

— Morgan Stessman, Meteorologist, National Weather Service

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This sudden shift in weather conditions highlights the unpredictable nature of Las Vegas' climate, which can swing rapidly from wet and cool to hot and dry. This is particularly noteworthy given the region's ongoing water scarcity issues and the need to adapt to a changing climate.